Chromatography
Chromatography is a powerful analytical technique used to separate and analyze complex mixtures of compounds. It operates on the principle that different components in a mixture will interact differently with a stationary phase and a mobile phase. As the mixture is introduced into the system, these phases work in tandem to separate the components based on their affinity for each phase, leading to distinct bands or peaks on a chromatogram. There are various chromatography methods, including gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), each tailored to specific applications. GC separates volatile compounds, while LC and HPLC are used for a broader range of compounds, from small molecules to biomolecules like proteins and nucleic acids. Chromatography finds applications in diverse fields, from pharmaceuticals, environmental analysis, and food testing to forensic science and biochemistry, facilitating the identification and quantification of compounds within mixtures and contributing to scientific research and quality control in numerous industries.
